Batwoman #19
WARNING THERE BE SPOILERS!!!
Can I just say how gorgeous this cover is?! The lives in the pages of Batwoman continue to grow and change within this issue. Old faces return, and some friendships are at stake. Kate is still at odds with the D.E.O. and Cameron Chase is at the end of her ropes. There is so much that happens in this issue that readers wouldn't want to miss, but on to the review!!!
THE GOOD:
Williams and Blackman have created an enthralling series that lives within its own world, and it has really benefited in the past. Now, we continue to see what is happening with these characters, and it isn't pretty. Cameron Chase's past is explored, which for newer readers is a real treat, especially when we have her sister as well. We also see the supposed partnership of Batwoman and Hawkfire deteriorate, which puts Kate in a really deep corner all by herself. Though it is a rumor within the book, it seems as though the Kane family might have an unknown member that has also been plaguing Kate for some time now. There really is too much in this issue to explain without giving away all the spoilers, but it really was a wild ride, with the dynamics of everything beginning to switch on us. I love the idea of Hawkfire being on her own, or even possibly teaming up with the Bat-fam, as Kate has contempt for the Bat brood. It also isn't much of a surprise to see that Beth has returned, and the confrontation that we have been waiting for since Batwoman:Elegy will finally happen next month. All round, pretty enjoyable issue.
I love McCarthy's artwork, and this really stands out. Though people may have read this series for William's fantastic work, I truly think that this book works with Trevor's talent.
BEST STORY MOMENT: With Kate being so isolated, it will be great to see her finally face Beth. The nightmare sequence was astounding as well.
BEST ART MOMENT: I don't know about the clock turning action sequence, it might end up in the Bad column, but I have to say that is really is an impressive attempt. Otherwise, Trevor was pretty consistent through and through.
THE BAD:
This was a jam packed issue, problem is that it was filled with so much it was hard to keep up. It felt at first that this issue would focus on Cameron, but she only had two other pages in the issue. I thought it was great to see Chase's past, but I don't know how meaningful it will be. There was also a lot of confusion as to why Kate would use the Scarecrow's concoction on her own fiancee. So what if the D.E.O. asked her (which makes no sense), I would never see Kate doing that. Their relationship wasn't strong going into the marriage, so it wouldn't be surprising to also see that relationship fall. Another problem I see is why Kate never regarded Bette as her partner, right to her face. The dialogue was so abrupt, and honestly so cold. It was great to see Bette really coming into her own (tell me you saw her place that tracker) and I think that will play into next issue, but honestly Kate is acting really out of character, and really cold to everyone. This may be what Williams is trying to set up, putting Kate in a completely isolated situation for her to confront Beth, but I think that theory will have to see in time.
The only problem I see with the art was that clock like action sequence, it really was confusing and rushed, but yet an impressive piece of work.
WORST STORY MOMENT: I would say the whole Jake/Katherine exchange was pretty much pointless, as they could have revealed what Jake was thinking in a more effective way. Also, as much as I liked the Chase sisters' interaction, it held no other purpose for the issue.
WORST ART MOMENT: The incredibly rushed fight scene with Shard that could have lasted a lot longer.
OVERALL
A pretty solid issue, which will definitely make next month's issue very hard to ignore. I love that this is a Bat-title character that does her absolute damnest to not be seen with Batman, but yet it always comes up. Though the D.E.O. is determined to discover who Batman is, it is great to see how Kate Kane fits into all this, especially after she is offered her sister. This issue wasn't perfect, but was still a good inclusion. I would recommend this issue to those who love this series, but I would also offer that newer readers read last month's issue before this one. Til next month!!!
